Frank Mba, seven other DIGs may be forced to retire following Tunji Disu’s emergence as Acting IGP

Frank Mba, seven other DIGs may be forced to retire following Tunji Disu’s emergence as Acting IGP

A wave of retirements is looming within the upper command of the Nigeria Police Force following the departure of former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the elevation of Assistant Inspector-General Olatunji Disuas the new IGP.

Inside the Force Headquarters, the leadership transition has sparked mixed reactions, with expectations that at least eight Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) could be compulsorily retired as part of the restructuring process.

Senior officers say the impending exits are not unusual.

In the Nigeria Police system, when a junior-ranking officer is appointed IGP, those senior to him are typically required to step aside to preserve command structure and discipline.

A serving Assistant Inspector-General, who spoke anonymously, explained: “The Nigeria Police has a strict hierarchy. When a junior officer is appointed IGP, it is common for senior officers above him in rank to retire, voluntarily or otherwise. This prevents conflicts in the chain of command and allows the new leadership to implement its strategic agenda without obstruction.

“Besides, three of the recently promoted DIGs may retire between June and July due to age and years of service.”

Sources indicate that at least four DIGs may retire alongside Egbetokun as part of the broader transition.

An internal list circulating within the Force suggests that DIGs heading strategic departments could be impacted.

These include officers overseeing Finance and Administration, Logistics and Supply, Information and Communication Technology, the Force Criminal Investigation Department, the Force Intelligence Department, Research and Planning, and Training.

However, uncertainty remains over whether recently promoted DIGs including Fayoade Adegoke, Funsho Adegboye, and Mohammed Adamu Dankwara will also be required to leave.

The anonymous AIG emphasised that the retirements are procedural rather than punitive, noting that many of the affected officers are approaching statutory retirement age.

According to him, the transition offers the new IGP an opportunity to reposition the Force’s leadership architecture.

He said the unfolding developments
“signal a generational shift within the Force’s top command, with potential implications for internal stability, operational direction, and institutional reform.”